Getting ready to send a package through the mail? Great, do you know what type of shipping box you need? There are many shapes, styles, and sizes of shipping boxes out there. Needless to say, it matters which box you choose. Not only will the perfect box keep your items safe, but choosing the right box can also save you money on shipping costs and add protection to the items packed inside.
So, ready to find your dream box? Use this guide to learn more about choosing the best boxes for shipping.
The most common question first-time shippers have is “what size shipping box do I need?” The answer of course depends on what you intend to ship. The rule of thumb is to use a box that’s large enough to comfortably hold your item(s) with at least 2-3 inches of space on the sides for packing materials.
Also consider the shape of your item(s). For example, if you’re shipping framed art, you should find a box to closely match the flat, rectangular shape so there’s as little wasted space as possible. This keeps your shipping costs down and keeps your items safer by preventing movement/shifting.
The go-to of course is what many call a “cardboard box.” But if you ship anything in an actual cardboard box, you might be in for an unpleasant surprise. That’s because actual cardboard is thin and weak, and more often used for product packaging such as cereal boxes. What you want is corrugated fiberboard (aka corrugated cardboard), which is the standard when it comes to packaging items for shipping, moving, or any kind of transporting.
If you close your eyes and picture a cardboard box, you’re probably picturing a corrugated box. This type of box has three layers a middle ‘flute’ layer – usually a in a zig-zag or ridged shape – and two outer layers, or ‘liners’, that hold the flute in place. This triple-layer design supplies a sturdier and stronger container for shipping than standard cardboard, which only has a thin, single layer.
Single corrugated, or single walled boxes, have only one layer of fluting, while double walled boxes have two layers. Single layer is more common, while double is more specialized. We recommend using double walled corrugated boxes for shipping in just about all cases. The two layers of fluting gives you twice the impact and puncture protection, so you can rest assured your items arrive at their destination safely.
Another aspect to consider is the edge crush test (ECT) rating. We won’t bore you with the science. Just know that ECT rating refers to box strength, particularly against crushing. The higher the ECT rating, the less likely it is the box gets crushed. Naturally, double corrugated boxes have a higher ECT rating than single corrugated boxes. For example, a standard U-Haul moving box has an ECT rating of 32, while a double walled moving box carries an ECT rating of 48! In other words, a double walled box can withstand up to a 48-pounds per square inch vertical compression.
Although U-Haul boxes are best known for moving and storage, many of our boxes are ideal for shipping as well. That’s because many of our specialty boxes are double walled and already uniquely shaped to fit common household items. Below are some of the types of shipping boxes we offer.
Yes, moving boxes/single walled boxes can be used for shipping in most cases. In fact, all standard U-Haul moving boxes meet UPS, USPS, FedEx shipping requirements. However, we recommend using double walled boxes rather than single ones if you have the choice. As we’ve outlined, double walled boxes give you better protection from punctures, crushing, and impact than single walled boxes.
If you are using a single walled box, be sure to take extra care packing your belongings by using recommended packaging supplies, like loose fill, bubble packaing, packing tape, and more, and best practice packing methods. As a standard, we recommend at least 4-5 inches of protective material when using a single walled box for shipping. View our complete guides for packing a box for shipping and choosing the best protective packing material to ensure you’re packing your boxes like pro.
Another must-know: duct tape, box tape, electrical tape, etc. These tapes are NOT suitable for shipping. Instead, be sure to use clear, plastic shipping tape. This type has a strong, hot-melt adhesive that’s designed to keep cardboard boxes sealed tight. Other types of tape are likely to peel off your box. Want to learn more about tape? We have a guide for that, too. We also recommend you tape your box the correct way by using the ‘h’ tape method. Learn more about taping a box the right way.
You can find boxes for shipping nearly anywhere you can find packaging supplies. That includes over 2,200 U-Haul center locations. We carry a variety of low-cost double walled, specialty boxes designed for reliable moving and storage use that are also perfect for shipping! Order online and choose from same day delivery or FREE pickup in store.
When shipping items across long distances, it’s important to choose the correct boxes and cushioning to ensure they arrive safely and in one piece at their destination. Proper packing begins with selecting the right materials. Check out our guide on choosing the most suitable carboard box for your next shipment.
There are three types of corrugated box: single-wall, double-wall, and triple-wall. Your item’s shape and weight, as well as any forces your box may be subjected to during shipping and handling (such as possibly being stacked), will determine which type of box you should choose. The difference between each is the number of layers of fiberboard. The most frequently used container is the single-wall corrugated box, which is made of a single flute and each side of the flue is covered with a liner.
For heavier items, use a double-wall corrugated box, which is made of two groups of flutes with a liner in between and on the top and bottom. The double-wall box has more strength than a single-wall box. For very heavy items, opt for a triple-wall corrugated box, which made of three groups of flutes with a liner in between the layers of flutes and on the outer edges. The more layers of flutes, the stronger the box.
All corrugated boxes used at The UPS Store include a Box Manufacturer Certificate such as the one shown here, which gives you information on the box’s dimensions and strength.
The following chart further explains the information contained on most box certificates. The weight of the item plus the cushioning material) should not exceed the recommended weight.
Minimum Bursting Test Maximum Dimensions Length + Width + Depth Manufacturer’s Maximum Weight Maximum Recommended Weight Single-wall Corrugated Boxes 200 75 65 40 275 85 95 65 350 105 120 85 Double-wall Corrugated Boxes 275 95 100 80 350 105 120 100 400 110 140 120 500 115 160 140 600 120 180 150 275 95 100 80
Corrugated cartons are manufactured based on two different standards: the Mullen Test (or Burst Test), or the Edge Crush Test (ECT). The Mullen Test measures bursting strength of the corrugated linerboard (measured in psi). For example, a Mullen-tested box that’s rated at 200 means it can withstand 200 pounds per square inch of force applied directly to the linerboard. Many customers prefer Mullen-tested boxes for protection of heavier contents if they are concerned about the linerboard bursting. The minimum rated Mullen Test box allowable for courier shipping is 200 lb.
The ECT Test measures the box board’s top-to-bottom compression strength. This test looks at two areas of strength – Box Compression Strength (BCT) and Stacking Strength. If a customer is concerned about the maximum weight a box can stand, then look at the ECT rating. The minimum rated ECT Test box allowable for courier shipping is 32 lb. The corrugated sheets used to manufacture all boxes larger than 14”x14”x14” must be 44 lb. ECT.
Need more info? The packing experts at The UPS Store can advise you on the best box needed for your item(s), and help you pack and ship it. Visit a location near you for details.
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